Composer

:

Scottish Traditional

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Average_duration

:

3:30

"John Barleycorn" is a traditional Scottish folk song that dates back to the 16th century. The song tells the story of the eponymous character, John Barleycorn, who is a personification of the barley plant and the process of making beer and whiskey. The song has been performed and recorded by numerous artists over the years, including Traffic, Fairport Convention, and Steeleye Span. The song is typically performed in a slow, mournful style, with a simple melody and lyrics that are easy to sing along with. It is often played on acoustic instruments such as guitar, fiddle, and mandolin, and is a popular choice for folk music sessions and sing-alongs. "John Barleycorn" is divided into several movements, each of which tells a different part of the story. The first movement describes the planting of the barley and the hope for a good harvest. The second movement describes the cutting and threshing of the barley, and the third movement describes the brewing and distilling process. The fourth movement is the most famous and poignant part of the song, as it describes the death of John Barleycorn. The lyrics describe how he is beaten, bound, and thrown into a mill to be ground into flour. Despite his suffering, John Barleycorn is eventually reborn as beer and whiskey, which are enjoyed by people all over the world. Overall, "John Barleycorn" is a powerful and evocative song that captures the spirit of Scottish folk music. Its simple melody and lyrics make it easy to sing along with, while its themes of life, death, and rebirth resonate with audiences of all ages and backgrounds. Whether performed in a small pub or on a large concert stage, "John Barleycorn" is a timeless classic that continues to inspire and delight music lovers around the world.

More....